About Us

Our Mission

Our mission is very straightforward. MOCSA exists to improve the lives of those impacted by sexual assault and abuse, and to prevent sexual violence in our community.

Why we work toward this mission daily is equally straightforward. Sexual violence is not something that only happens in other places – it happens right here, in Kansas City, every single day. And the impacts can be devastating, not only for the victims, but also for their friends and loved ones. Too often, it happens within a family or within a circle of friends. More than 80 percent of sexual violence is committed by someone the victim knows, not by a stranger.

Without support and help, the trauma of sexual violence can stay with victims for a lifetime. So we do everything we can to prevent these crimes from happening in the first place, and to offer support, healing, and hope when they do occur. We help victims become survivors.

History

In 1969, a metropolitan-wide coalition of criminal justice, health, mental health and other professionals came together with committed advocates to address the needs of those who had been sexually assaulted. In 1972, they created an organization dedicated to educating the broad bi-state Kansas City area, launched an emergency hotline, and took action 24/7. That group evolved and incorporated in 1975 to become the Metropolitan Organization to Count Sexual Assault (MOCSA), serving as the Kansas City area rape crisis center. In 1983, MOCSA expanded services to include child sexual abuse victims and their families. Over the years, MOCSA has continually expanded to better meet the needs of victims and our community. MOCSA offers therapy, support and advocacy for victims of rape and sexual assault, for sexually abused children and family, for adult survivors of sexual abuse, and for others affected by sexual violence. Through the years, MOCSA has enhanced and increased outreach, prevention and education programs focused on students as well as professional and community groups.

Today, MOCSA is a comprehensive service model that is unique and is recognized for innovative programs and quality services.

But sadly, one thing has remained unchanged throughout the years - the need for all that MOCSA does.One is six women will be the victim of completed or attempted rape in her lifetime. And we know that less than 20 percent of all rapes are reported. At the same time, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused during childhood.